What is OpenSolver?

OpenSolver is an open source linear, integer, and non-linear optimizer designed as an Excel VBA add-in. It enhances the capabilities of Microsoft Excel's built-in Solver, providing more powerful and efficient optimization solutions. Developed by Andrew Mason and his students from the Engineering Science department at the University of Auckland, New Zealand, OpenSolver is available for Microsoft Excel versions 2007 through 2016 and is also compatible with Google Sheets.

Notably, OpenSolver employs the COIN-OR CBC optimization engine to solve optimization problems without the artificial limits imposed by other software options. It is a user-friendly tool that can permanently be installed in Excel, allowing it to load automatically upon starting the application. While OpenSolver is a robust tool for simpler models and ensures compatibility with Excel's built-in Solver, alternatives like SolverStudio are recommended for larger or more complex optimization problems.

As a free and open source service, OpenSolver is released under the GPL and continues to be a popular choice for both academic and professional use. The ongoing development and maintenance of OpenSolver are carried out by Andrew Mason and his students, emphasizing the tool’s educational roots and collaborative nature. Despite its capabilities, OpenSolver remains unaffiliated with Microsoft or Frontline Systems, offering an independent solution for optimization needs.

ETL Tools for Open Solver

Open Solver is an innovative ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) tool that forms part of the CloverDX suite of data integration solutions. As an open-source, Java-based framework, Open Solver excels in transforming, mapping, and manipulating data across various formats. Its advanced capabilities enable it to function both as a standalone system and as an integrated component alongside other databases and files.

With a user-friendly drag-and-drop interface, Open Solver simplifies designing data pipelines, making it comparable to other industry tools such as Talend. It boasts a comprehensive data integration platform that includes extraction, transformation, loading, orchestration, and governance. Additionally, Open Solver facilitates automated pipeline execution through its server and offers a Wrangler self-service data transformation interface that caters specifically to business users.

CloverDX, supporting Open Solver, delivers robust assistance for a range of databases, cloud platforms, and can accommodate custom connectors. It offers various pricing models to suit different user needs, including Standard, Plus, and Enhanced, alongside reliable tech support to ensure smooth operations.

Streamline Your ETL Process with Sourcetable

Using Sourcetable to manage your ETL processes offers unparalleled ease and efficiency when working with data from OpenSolver and similar sources. By choosing Sourcetable, you eliminate the complexity and time commitment associated with third-party ETL tools or the daunting task of developing your own ETL solution. Sourcetable is designed to sync your live data from virtually any app or database, seamlessly integrating with your workflow.

One of the key benefits of leveraging Sourcetable for your ETL needs is its ability to automatically pull in data from multiple sources. This automation not only reduces manual effort but also significantly decreases the risk of errors during data entry. Additionally, Sourcetable's intuitive spreadsheet-like interface is a familiar environment for many users, making it easier to query and manipulate data without the steep learning curve often associated with specialized ETL software.

For those who require immediate access to data for business intelligence and decision-making, Sourcetable's real-time capabilities ensure that your data is always up to date. The simplification of the ETL process, when using Sourcetable, allows you to focus more on analysis and less on the mechanics of data integration. This ease of use, coupled with powerful automation features, positions Sourcetable as an optimal solution for those looking to enhance their data management processes without incurring additional overhead or complexity.

Common Use Cases

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  Optimizing resource allocation
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  Automating financial planning
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  Streamlining supply chain logistics
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  Scheduling workforce efficiently
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  Maximizing portfolio investments

Frequently Asked Questions

Can OpenSolver handle large-scale data processing?

OpenSolver uses linear programming to optimize models but does not automatically update, which may limit its ability to handle large-scale data processing without manual intervention.

Does OpenSolver offer any features to speed up computation time?

Yes, OpenSolver has a Presolve option that shortens computing time and a Quick Solve feature that allows it to solve the same problem multiple times in the same session.

Can OpenSolver be used for complex problems like transportation or transshipment issues?

OpenSolver can be used to solve transportation/transshipment problems, leveraging the CBC Engine for assignment issues.

Are there any common issues with using OpenSolver?

OpenSolver may have problems with Excel add-ons and may produce divide by zero errors in linear models.

Is OpenSolver compatible with ETL tools?

The compatibility of OpenSolver with ETL tools is not directly stated, but ETL tools can prepare and transform data that could potentially be used with OpenSolver.